Update & Upgrade Problems

Fix Excel 2016 /p Command-Line Switch Not Working After KB5002653

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs a solution or workaround for the /p command-line switch failing in Excel 2016 Volume License Edition after installing a specific system update.

Product: Excel 2016 Volume License Edition
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Automating tasks or printing workbooks using the /p command-line switch in Excel.
Observed behavior: The /p command-line switch stops functioning completely after installing update KB5002653. The functionality is restored only when the update is uninstalled.

Before you start

Before making changes, verify your current Excel 2016 version and consult your organization's IT change-management policy regarding system update rollbacks.

Solution 1Recommended

Temporarily Uninstall Update KB5002653

Rolling back the problematic update restores the /p switch functionality until Microsoft releases a permanent fix.

Since this issue appears to be a regression caused by a specific update, removing the update is the most direct workaround. Ensure that uninstalling this update does not conflict with your company's security policies.

Open Windows Settings

Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app, then navigate to Update & Security.

View Update History

Click on 'View update history' and select the 'Uninstall updates' option at the top of the window.

Locate and Uninstall

Find update KB5002653 in the list of installed updates, right-click it, and select 'Uninstall'. Follow the prompts to restart your computer.

Monitor for Updates: Pause your system updates temporarily if possible, and monitor official Microsoft release notes for a permanent patch that addresses this regression.

Solution 2

Report the Issue to Microsoft Feedback Channels

Submitting a detailed bug report helps Microsoft engineers prioritize and release a fix for the regression.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the /p command-line switch do in Excel?

The /p command-line switch is used to print a specified workbook directly to the default printer without fully opening the standard Excel user interface, which is highly useful for automated batch printing.

Is it safe to uninstall a Windows update like KB5002653?

Uninstalling an update is generally safe and is a standard troubleshooting step for resolving update regressions. However, because updates often contain security patches, you should always consult your IT department's policies before removing them.

Will Microsoft release a fix for this Excel 2016 bug?

Yes, when an update causes a documented regression, Microsoft typically reviews bug reports submitted through the Feedback Hub and the Excel Feedback portal, eventually releasing a fix in a subsequent cumulative update.

Installation & Activation